So… how many likes/views/comments did your post/video get?  Who won the gold in the Olympics?  Which team is the best in football/baseball/hockey?  Who won the photo contest?  Who is the most beautiful, talented woman in the world?  I wonder what would happen if we took away all the needless competition?  I believe in striving for excellence and doing the best we can, but we go to extremes for attention and approval from others.  We should appreciate and take advantage of the unique, individual talents we possess, but why do we have to prove them to the world?  When we do get the most votes and win a contest, are we any happier?  It seems that our egos still need fed, and the bigger the ego, the more attention it demands.  Can we ever be proud and satisfied with who and what we are without any doubt or approval from others?  My grandson demands a lot of attention, and he is only five years old.  He always says, “Watch me Grammie. Look at what I can do.”  Constant praise and reassurance that he is so great and loved by so many people builds his self-esteem.

The presidential campaign has gotten way out of line. Yes, this country definitely needs leadership, and the American people have the privilege to vote for the most qualified candidate.  However, the process needs improvement, and the candidates should be presented in a respectful and honorable manner.  Attacking, bashing, or criticism from the candidates, public, or media should be prohibited.  We should be focused on the positive aspects and qualifications instead of who is the most flawed.